The Best Method to Hide an Outdoor Security Camera

J. Lang WoodUpdated February 21, 2017

Security cameras have become a part of everyday life, and most people are accustomed to seeing outdoor cameras on streets, in car parks and at entrances to housing developments. Because of the competitive prices in these monitoring systems, homeowners are taking advantage of the opportunity to protect their property and loved ones by installing security cameras at entrances, in backyards and at other key outdoor points. Wireless systems are easiest to hide and should elicit fewer complaints from neighbours about the monitoring of their activities. You can choose to disguise your camera with such coverings as a birdhouse, an empty floodlight housing or cupola.

Choose the right location for your camera. Select a site that allows the camera a clear visual field to the front or back door, sidewalk or darkened area of the yard. This area should be free of leaves, tree branches or other obstructions to allow the widest possible surveillance scope of the area.

Attach the disguising element to a tree branch, stand or other structure. Use nails, screws or baling wire to secure the disguise element to a tree branch, stand or other structure. If necessary, use a small square of plywood or metal to stabilise the casing. Secure it tightly so that high winds and rain will not dislodge the camera and casing.

Set the camera in the disguise and secure it with screws, wire or some other mechanical means such as rope or clamps.

Check that the item you've used to disguise the camera properly shelters it from the elements.

Test the camera. Check the angle and range of surveillance so that it fully covers the area you want monitored.

Adjust the position of the camera and its disguise casing as needed.

Tip

According to the Ask the Builder website, wireless camera security systems require a battery or low-voltage cable from a nearby transformer. Use only outdoor security cameras for outdoor use. Infrared cameras allow for night vision even when there is no available light. According to Home Security 101, the visual quality of night vision cameras can vary. Compare cameras before you purchase one. You will need to consider whether you want a motion-activated camera or one that works continuously before you make your purchase. Motion-activated technology is more expensive. Try to choose a "natural" disguise for the security camera. This will help to prevent detection.

Warning

Tree or shrub growth can obstruct the surveillance viewing area at any time. Check for overgrowth of foliage and prune as necessary. You may need to move the camera to provide the best surveillance view as foliage grows. Remove any debris that may be blown into the disguise element regularly to ensure that surveillance is unobstructed. Nearby metal can disrupt the signal of wireless outdoor security systems. Remove metal poles and other metal objects to prevent interference with signal transmission. Always be careful to keep the camera's views away from other people's property.